Three African goalkeepers have earned nominations for the 2026 Ballon d’Or Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, known as the Yashin Trophy, underlining Africa’s growing presence among the world’s elite shot-stoppers.
Morocco’s Yassine Bounou of Al Hilal, Senegal’s Édouard Mendy of Al Ahli, and Cape Verde’s Vozinha of Colo-Colo were included among the 10 nominees announced by France Football on Tuesday.
They will compete alongside some of Europe’s leading goalkeepers, including Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid, David Raya of Arsenal, Joan García of Barcelona, Unai Simón of Athletic Club, Gregor Kobel of Borussia Dortmund, Emiliano Martínez, and Matvey Safonov.
The shortlist recognises performances between August 2025 and July 2026, with displays at the 2026 FIFA World Cup also considered.
Vozinha Earns Recognition After World Cup Heroics
Vozinha’s nomination comes after a remarkable campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Cape Verde captain emerged as one of the tournament’s standout goalkeepers.
The 40-year-old produced a number of impressive performances, particularly against eventual champions Spain and Argentina.
He earned a place in FIFA’s fan-selected World Cup Dream Team after helping tournament debutants Cape Verde hold Spain to a goalless draw and forcing Argentina into extra time in their Round of 32 encounter.
Cape Verde eventually bowed out of the competition following a 3-2 extra-time defeat to Argentina.
Vozinha’s performances also attracted huge international attention, with his social media following reportedly jumping from fewer than 50,000 before the World Cup to almost 29 million during the tournament.
The goalkeeper was without a club when the World Cup began but secured a move to Chilean giants Colo-Colo just weeks after the competition.
Bounou and Mendy Add African Experience
Bounou, one of the leading figures in Morocco’s national team, continues to receive international recognition for his impressive performances with Al Hilal and the Atlas Lions.
The experienced goalkeeper is also a former CAF award winner and has established himself as one of Africa’s most respected players in his position.
Senegal international Édouard Mendy also brings considerable experience to the shortlist. The former Chelsea goalkeeper remains one of Africa’s most decorated shot-stoppers, having enjoyed significant success at both club and continental level.
The inclusion of Bounou, Mendy and Vozinha gives Africa three representatives in the 10-man Yashin Trophy shortlist, setting the stage for a highly competitive race for the 2026 award.
